Meltmode’s latest EP encapsulates why you should care about the new wave of Thai house
Merging traditional instrumentation with infectious house music is a deadly combination we can’t get enough of
Bangkok-based artist Meltmode releases his latest EP titled ‘Local Wisdom of Phothi But’, out now with Pissawong Records.
This project is a bold step forward in the evolution of Thai house, a subgenre that seamlessly blends traditional Thai instruments, vocals, and melodies with modern dance music.
Drawing inspiration from regional musical styles from areas like Luk Thung and Mor Lam, the EP layers traditional Thai sounds over infectious beats, creating a fusion that bridges past and present. Never lost within this framework is the modern and relevant house music production that fuels the dance floor's heartbeat.
‘Jai Manut’ features classic Thai poetry set to a backdrop of rhythmic Thai instrumentation, striking a perfect balance between the organic and electronic, whereas ‘Mat See’ offers a more introspective experience.
Based on the Buddhist teaching of Dharma and using the traditional chant Lae, the song weaves eerie synths with dark, atmospheric tones. Despite its unsettling mood, the track carries an irresistible groove that keeps us hooked.
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Our top pick, ‘AH-RR’, stands out with its off-kilter percussion and deep, immersive production. Traditional Thai vocals and percussion are intricately woven into the fabric of the track, creating an earworm that blurs the lines between old and new in a captivating way resulting in a gem of a track.
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Released via Pissawong Records, ‘Local Wisdom of Phothi But’ is part of a growing catalogue of groundbreaking work, with labelmates like Ahivar, Wildealer, TISSANAI, IYY, Sami Galetto, La Yumar, and Yorsab, all helping to define the Thai house movement.
Purchase Meltmode ‘Local Wisdom of Phothi But’ here.
Henry Cooper is a Writer at Mixmag Asia. Follow him on Instagram.
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